Laparoscopic Salpingectomy

A laparoscopic salpingectomy is a minimally invasive surgery to remove one or both fallopian tubes (the tubes connecting the ovaries to the uterus). It is performed using a thin, lighted tube (laparoscope) and small abdominal incisions. This procedure is performed under general anaesthesia (you’ll be asleep).

Why is it Performed?

Your gynaecologist may recommend this procedure for:

• Ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy growing outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tube).
• Infection or damage (e.g., hydrosalpinx, pyosalpinx).
• Cancer risk reduction (e.g., for BRCA gene carriers to lower ovarian cancer risk).
• Sterilisation (permanent contraception).
• Blocked or diseased tubes causing infertility or pain.

Before the Procedure

• Consultation: Discuss risks, benefits, and alternatives (e.g., salpingostomy for ectopic pregnancy).
• Pre-checks:
  • Pregnancy test, pelvic ultrasound, or blood work.
  • Review medical history/allergies (e.g., anaesthesia).
• Preparation:
  • Fasting: No food/drink for 6–12 hours before surgery.
  • Medications: Adjust blood thinners (e.g., aspirin) as advised.
  • Arrange transport: You cannot drive home after anaesthesia.

During the Procedure

1. Anaesthesia: You’ll be asleep throughout.
2. Process:
   1. 2–3 small incisions (0.5–1.5 cm) in the abdomen.
   1. Carbon dioxide gas gently inflates the abdomen for visibility.
   1. The laparoscope guides the surgeon to locate and remove the affected tube(s).
   1. Tissue may be sent to a lab for testing.
3. Closure: Stitches or glue seal the incisions.
4. Duration: 30–90 minutes (depends on complexity).

What you might feel afterward:

• Shoulder/neck pain (from gas used during surgery).
• Mild abdominal discomfort.

Risks & Complications

• Common (temporary):
  • Mild pain, bloating, or vaginal spotting.
  • Bruising at incision sites.
• Rare but serious:
  • Infection, bleeding, or damage to nearby organs (bowel, bladder).
  • Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis).
  • Conversion to open surgery (larger incision).
  • Impact on fertility (if both tubes are removed).

Recovery

In the hospital:

• Most patients go home the same day or after a 1-night stay.

At home:

• Rest: Avoid heavy lifting, exercise, or driving for 1–2 weeks.
• Pain relief: Use prescribed medications or paracetamol/ibuprofen.
• Wound care: Keep incisions clean/dry; watch for redness/swelling.
• Activity:
  • Gentle walks aid recovery; gradually resume normal tasks.
  • Avoid sex, tampons, or swimming for 2–4 weeks.

Return to work: Typically, within 1–2 weeks (adjust based on job demands).

Long-Term Effects

• Fertility:
  • One tube removed: Natural pregnancy is still possible.
  • Both tubes removed: Pregnancy requires IVF.
• Menopause: Ovaries are preserved, so hormones remain normal.
• Cancer risk: Reduces ovarian cancer risk if tubes are removed prophylactically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will my periods change?
A: No – periods continue normally unless the ovaries are removed.

Q: Can I still get pregnant after one tube is removed?
A: Yes, if the other tube is healthy.

Q: Are the scars noticeable?
A: Incisions heal into small, faint marks.

Q: Does this surgery prevent ovarian cancer?
A: Yes, if done for risk reduction (e.g., BRCA carriers).

eGynaecologist Advice:

• You should seek gynaecological consultation if you have high temperature >38°C, severe pain, heavy bleeding, or dizziness after the procedure.

You must seek urgent gynaecological consultation if you develop chest pain, shortness of breath, or leg swelling after the procedure